The Ultimate Wedding Dress Shopping Timeline
FROM “YES TO THE DRESS, TO FINAL FITTINGS”
When it comes to planning a wedding, choosing your dress should be one of the most magical (and emotional) parts of the journey.
But it’s also a process that can take time, co-ordination, and a few key milestones.
To help you avoid lastminute stress and enjoy every moment, we’ve created a detailed wedding dress shopping timeline,
including accessories, fittings, and everything in between.
Whether you’re a planner or spontaneous, this guide will keep you on track!
12-18 Months Before the Wedding: Start Dreaming
What to Do:
Create a Pinterest board or moodboard of styles you love.
Think about the atmosphere of your wedding (formal, destination, garden, boho, etc.).
Set a realistic budget based on the look you are focusing on, not on million dollar weddings you have seen on the gram.
Begin researching bridal boutiques or designers.
Pro Tip: Consider your wedding venue and season - it helps narrow down fabrics and silhouettes that work best.
10-12 Months Before: Book Appointments & Shop!
What to Do:
Schedule appointments at the bridal boutiques that exicte you, of course making ours your first stop!
Be open-minded but trust your instincts: the right dress will make you feel amazing.
Say “YES” around the 8-10 month point so you have time for ordering and fittings.
Important: Most gowns take 4-8 months to create after ordering, this also has to do with our planning and busy seasons.
8-9 Months Before: Order the Dress
What to Do:
Finalize your choice and place the order.
Ask about timelines for delivery, alterations, and what underwear you might need.
ProTip: If you’re tight on time, ask about rush options. A lot of our dresses can be made with less time as long as we can plan it in.
6 Months Before: Accessory Planning
What to Do:
Shop for:
Shoes (very important for your first fitting)
Undergarments (shapewear or special bras if needed)
Try everything on with your dress in your head and aim for a cohesive look.
Pro Tip: Buy your wedding shoes before your first fitting - they affect your dress hemline.
8-10 Weeks Before: First Fitting
What to Expect:
The gown has been made!!
We will check the fit, pin alterations (bodice, hem, etc), and walk you through changes.
Bring your wedding shoes and undergarments.
Now is also the time to shop for a veil and jewellery.
Timeline: You may need 2-3 fittings in total.
4 Weeks Before: Second Fitting
What to Expect:
Alterations from the first fitting should be done.
You’ll try on the dress again for a more refined fit.
Make any small tweaks if needed.
Practice bustling the dress if needed.
Bring a friend or your maid of honor to learn how to help you into the gown.
Pro Tip: Try on your full bridal look: hair accessories, veil, jewellery, shoes, the whole ensemble.
Pick-Up & Pack
Pick up your gown if it’s being stored at the boutique.
Use a breathable garment bag and hang it high in a safe place.
Steam the dress if needed (or bring a steamer to your venue). Dicuss this first with us to check what is best.
Double-check all accessories are packed!
